Extending tunnel on 141 to 153 neccesary?

[jayh]

I have a 05 M7 141 that the guy before me put 153 rails on. He didn't do a tunnel extension. The dealer is telling me it will cause major issues as you can see the track has hit the rear cooler a couple times. I got the sled for a good price but am not really wanting to do the extension as it doesn't make it as good a deal. Will this cause issues for me?

Also, I am wanting to put a A20 153 on, the dealer is saying I will be very sorry I used this track, even in hillclimb position. Is this true, I ride in Northern Idaho, and want the stay off the trails as much as possible this year.

 

[Ski-Laxn]

I would recommend extending the tunnel. Also go with the powerclaw it is a much better track. The A20 was a good track also.

 

[05snopro440]

The stock challenger is a much better all-around track than the A20, you could also go challenger extreme or powerclaw, but I would stay away from the A20.

As for the extension, 141" to 153" is a pretty long jump for the stock extension. From my experience you can get away with a 3-5" longer track, but 12" is a big difference. Since there's evidence that it has been rubbing, you can take your chances and just be careful and keep an eye on it, but I would do the extension now.

 

[davidd]

just make sure you do a cool extension!!! skinz? or something that would make it better than a stock 153, and may make it easier to spend the money. I wouldn't risk it, if it hits the coolers hard enough, it will wreck a good riding day.

 

[jayh]

Thanks for the replies guys. Not sure what I'm gonna do yet, I think the main reason the rear cooler looks a little beat is cause the track thats on it was studded. I know it will still be an issue though. Maybe I'll use this as an excuse to get an M8.

I already have the A20 track which is why I wanted to put it on, I am looking into a challenger as they are cheaper than the powerclaws and I liked the one I had on my last sled, even with some missing lugs.

 

[harper]

Personally I like the A20 in Hill climb , great traction and a huge roost.

A20 in powder position is another story, no traction on hardpack at all but all good in powder.

 

[brendan ross]

i have an a20 and love it every were except coming down the hill and i would extend the tunnel the a20 is a great track in hillclimb mode but you put in powder mode and your pretty much going no were

 

[Squirrelchaser]

You might be able to flatten the cooler, but you will have to mod the rear bumper, or buy a bumper kit. As for the A20 love it in hillclimb but it does get a little hairy on the way down. Have had a couple short cleaning episodes!!!!!

 

[blackcloud2k]

you have the A20 track so use it. Its a good track that has gotten alot of bad reviews but as you can see in the hillclimb position it is a good all around track, plus you already have it so its the right price. As for the extension...do it. VE makes a new rear boondock tunnel section that would work nicely for what you need. Its not all that expensive either and would make for a great looking and functional sled

 

[jayh]

Yeah blackcloud thats kinda what I'm thinking, seems stupid to buy a new based off of one dealers opinion. I'm gonna at least try it and see how I like it.

The sled is really in good shape so I think its worth putting the money in to.

 

[Nubulin]

A20 is great boondocking in deep soft snow. It SUCKS in all other conditions.

You need to extend the tunnel. Its not that big of a deal or even that expensive. I have a take off 153 extension that I will sell you with a cooler. Then all you need is the tunnel sides which are about $40 a peice.

 

[89sandman]

extention is a must, just trying to grab the bumper in the back with the shorter tunnel and longer track when stuck is very hard. let alone the cooler issue...

 

[Heater15]

M8 153"

dont quote me on this but are the 153's up until 09' with the new tapered extension 130" long overall?. The 09-10's are 127" overall and the M8 and M7 141's are 127" overall. I run a 141" extension on mine with no problems with my 153". Never bottomed out or damaged at all. JMO

 

[jayh]

Could anyone give me a step by step on how to complete the extension? I have a 153 tunnel on its way, with a new bumper. Dealer says I need new coolers and grips, is this true or can I use the old ones? Do I need special rivets or just match the ones on it to some at fastenal or something?

 

[w8ing4snow]

You will probably want longer edge grips. as for the corner coolers you can extend them with some hose you pick up at a local Auto Parts store. I would get the rivits from AC to be safe they ussually are not much more.